Black Cocoa Cupcakes with Raspberry Chambord Buttercream…and a Giveaway

Black Cocoa Cupcakes with Raspberry Chambord Buttercream  RecipeIn this post from September, I shared with all of you about my journey through treatment and recovery from breast cancer.  That journey humbled me and changed me in ways I will be forever grateful.  I rarely sweat the small stuff, and I’d like to think (depending on who you ask) it softened my rougher edges just a bit.  I know I am one of the lucky ones.  Too many women (and men) are still loosing their battle, but with continued research, my hope is that a cure for breast cancer is near. Continue reading






Apple and Maple Syrup Pie

imageIt doesn’t take much to make this city girl happy.  The crackling sound of fallen leaves beneath my boots.  A carpet of red, green and golden orbs beneath trees whose limbs are releasing their precious fruit to my care.  Air crisp enough to don a scarf and lightweight jacket, adding to the Fall-ish atmosphere of a day of apple picking, and I’m happy! Continue reading






Spiced and Spiked Chocolate Pumpkin Cake

Chocolate Pumpkin Cake with Spiced and Spiked Whipped Cream RecipeI’m pretending it feels like Autumn around here even though the temperatures are rising instead of falling. I’ve lost patience waiting for cooler weather so I’ve been making lots of big hearty meals and tummy warming soups in spite of it feeling more like summer than Fall.  A gigantic pumpkin sits on my doorstep and the house is decorated with witches, and ghosts, and various other scary things.  I’m embracing October full on, even if the weather refuses to cooperate. Continue reading